Actor and model Antonio Sabato Jr. is running for Congress in Southern California.

Sabato, best known for his work on "Melrose Place," "General Hospital," "The Bold and the Beautiful" and as an underwear model for Calvin Klein will challenge Democrat Julia Brownley in California's 26th Congressional District, which represents northwest Los Angeles County and most of Ventura County.

The 45-year-old filed paperwork with federal regulators to begin raising money for the contest.

In a statement released to Eyewitness News, Sabato's lead strategist Jeff Corless said:

"Antonio Sabato Jr. has spent his entire adult life raising a family, running successful small businesses and giving back to his community. Antonio shares in the frustration of many voters across the political spectrum who believe government has failed them, which is why he has decided to run for Congress. Julia Brownley has been a professional politician most of her career and she has nothing to show for it. Antonio is very passionate about addressing our veterans' needs in a meaningful way, pursuing results oriented solutions for substance abuse, and comprehensive immigration reform. He looks forward to sharing his vision with the voters of California's 26th Congressional District."